Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network

The overall purpose of the Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network Scheme is to become part of a pedestrian and cycle network on the west side of the city which will provide a safe and attractive active travel route, catering for all users including commuters, leisure and family cycling groups.

Scheme Overview

The Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network Scheme will improve safety, reduce vehicle speeds, and contribute towards an increased number of trips in the area by pedestrians and cyclists. 

The Bóthar Stiofáin Cycle Network Scheme is 870m in length, stretching from the junction with Western Distributor Road at the south to the junction with Rahoon Road at the north. The proposed scheme involves the provision of a 14m wide cross-section with 2m raised adjacent cycle tracks on both sides of the road which will require some land-take from the eastern side. Raised zebra crossings at suitable intervals will also be installed.

The route connects residential areas with Gateway Retail Park, employment hubs, Gaelscoil Mhic Amhlaigh and Galway Bohemians FC. The route also provides a link to the Western Distributor Road and which has a large employment, educational and retail catchment.

This project is being delivered by the Active Travel Department of Galway City Council.  It is co-funded by the National Transport Authority and the government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund.  

Construction on this project begins in September 2025.

 

Latest Information Leaflets

 

What will be delivered

  • New infrastructure for walking and cycling will be constructed along the full 870m length of Bóthar Stiofáin, from the Rahoon Road to the Western Distributor Road.
  • New and upgraded footpaths will be constructed as part of this scheme.
  • New, fully segregated cycle tracks will be constructed along both sides of the road.•Four new raised pedestrian (zebra) crossings will be constructed, and the existing crossing at the approach to the Western Distributor Road roundabout will be retained.
  • The width of the roadway will be reduced in line with the approved plans.
  • Existing public lighting will be upgraded.
  • New trees will be planted along sections of the road
     

Benefits

  • New pedestrian crossings and upgraded footpaths delivered as part of this project will make it easier to walk and wheel along the road, including for children, older people and vulnerable road users.
  • The new facilities will encourage more people to cycle, reducing congestion.  This is also good for peoples’ health and the environment.
  • By narrowing the width of the roadway, vehicle speeds will be reduced, and this will improve safety for all.
  • This will offer safer access to local amenities including the Gateway Shopping Park, Gaelscoil Mhic Amhlaigh, Knocknacarra N.S. and other local schools and sports facilities.  The scheme will also connect to the future proposed Western Distributor Road Cycle Scheme (subject to planning approval).
  • Newly planted trees will improve the local environment and enhance the visual amenity of the road.

Construction 

  • Construction on this project will begin in the coming weeks.  The works period is scheduled to take apx. 12 months.
  • The contractor working on behalf of Galway City Council will write to local residents with more information, both before the works begin and as the project progresses  
  • There will be some traffic disruption, but every effort will be made to keep this to a minimum.

 

A photomontage of the Bothar Stiofáin Cycle Scheme